About UofL
Founded in 1798 as one of the nation’s first city-owned, public universities, UofL is a vital ecosystem that creates thriving futures for students, our community and society.
Why UofL?
As one of only 21 universities in the United States to earn recognition by the Carnegie Foundation as both a Research 1 and Opportunity College university, we are uniquely positioned to impact lives in areas of student success and research and innovation. Also recognized as a Carnegie Community Engaged university, our dynamic connection with our local and global communities provides unparalleled opportunities for students and citizens both.
At UofL, we prepare today’s students to be tomorrow’s leaders, whatever their passions may be. UofL’s more than 24,000 students study in 12 schools and colleges offering undergraduate degrees in more than 60 fields, master’s degrees in over 75 areas, and doctoral and professional degrees in more than 35 disciplines. UofL is a producer of top scholars, including over 170 Fulbright Scholarships awarded since 2003 – more than all other Kentucky four-year public institutions combined.
An active and diverse student body enriches the educational experience at UofL. As of fall 2024, first-generation college students represent 34% of student enrollment. Kentucky residents account for a majority of UofL’s student population; however more than 26% of our students are from all other U.S. states and territories and we have a growing population of international students. This dynamic tapestry of perspectives helps our Cardinal community fuel positive change.
Beyond academics, UofL invests in the whole student, providing support and resources that allow for transformative, purpose-driven and engaged learning. We are committed to ensuring access to higher education for all, including increasing the availability of financial aid for low-income and first-generation college students. UofL has been repeatedly designated a military friendly school. By striving for a more accessible campus community, UofL aims to change the course of future generations while preparing students for the careers, workplaces and complex challenges of tomorrow.
Get to know UofL
Find your way around
UofL by the numbers
Enrolled students
Total research funding in 2024
UofL alumni network
The UofL way
Redefining student success
UofL is a producer of top scholars, including over 170 Fulbright Scholarships awarded since 2003 – more than all other Kentucky four-year public institutions combined.
Research and innovation powerhouse
The university aims to advance health, empower communities and engineer the future economy through discoveries that will build a better world.
Premier metropolitan university
The city serves as a classroom for UofL students, who benefit from internships and co-ops with businesses including local startups and global corporations.
Alumni
With an alumni network more than 170,000 strong, the magnitude of Cardinal achievements is felt across the world.
Athletics
UofL was the first university ever to win a BCS Bowl game, place both men’s and women’s basketball teams in the NCAA Final Four and reach the College World Series in the same year.
Join the Cardinal community
UofL invests in the whole student, providing support and resources that allow for transformative, purpose-driven and engaged learning, while a dynamic tapestry of perspectives helps Cardinals fuel positive change. Find your place here.